Nearly all of USAID’s global workforce will be placed on administrative leave starting Friday, according to a notice posted on the aid agency’s website Tuesday evening. The move follows statements by President Donald Trump and key members of his administration about reviewing and potentially dismantling parts of USAID.
Workforce Shake-up and Immediate Impacts
The notice states that “all USAID direct hire personnel will be placed on administrative leave globally” by the end of the week, except for those responsible for mission-critical functions, core leadership, and specially designated programs. For USAID personnel stationed abroad, the agency is coordinating with the State Department to arrange their return travel to the U.S. within 30 days. Contractors not deemed essential will be laid off.
A January Congressional report estimated USAID’s direct hire workforce at over 10,000 employees, with roughly two-thirds serving overseas. The New York Times reports that the decision was communicated after approximately 1,400 U.S.-based USAID employees were informed they would be placed on indefinite administrative leave until further notice.
Digital Presence Scrubbed
In a further sign of uncertainty, USAID’s social media presence appears to have been drastically reduced. Its Instagram, X (formerly Twitter), and YouTube accounts are no longer accessible. However, its Facebook page remains online, with its last update posted Friday, featuring an excerpt from an op-ed by Secretary of State Marco Rubio.
Protests and Political Fallout
A major protest rally, dubbed the “Rally to Restore Foreign Aid Now,” is set to take place in Washington, D.C., on Wednesday morning. The demonstration aims to push back against the administration’s efforts to dismantle or significantly curtail USAID’s operations. Several lawmakers are scheduled to speak at the rally, including:
- Sen. Tim Kaine (D-VA)
- Sen. Chris Coons (D-DE)
- Sen. Chris Van Hollen (D-MD)
- Rep. Lois Frankel (D-FL)
- Rep. Sara Jacobs (D-CA)
Future of USAID Uncertain
At 5:22 p.m. EST on February 3, Rubio told lawmakers in a letter that USAID may undergo substantial restructuring. According to The Washington Post, Rubio stated, “USAID may move, reorganize, and integrate certain missions, bureaus, and offices into the Department of State, and the remainder of the agency may be abolished consistent with applicable law.” He cited concerns over “conflicting” and “overlapping” agency activities that, in his view, lead to inefficiencies in U.S. foreign policy.
With administrative leave now in effect and a restructuring or dissolution on the table, USAID’s future remains in limbo as stakeholders await further updates from the Trump administration.
